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Abstract

Problems with self-regulation is often the core symptom of many
mental disorders. It is therefore important to have more knowledge
about the factors that have influence on the early development of
self-regulation. The overall aim of this study is to examine infant
regulatory capacity and factors related to infants' dysregulation in
interaction with their mothers. The study includes two groups of
mothers and their three months old infants, a risk group with mothers
referred to mental health services for mental health problems in
pregnancy (n = 22) and a comparison group with mothers not
reporting such difficulties (n = 30). Results show that the mothers in
the risk group had higher scores of anxiety and depression in
pregnancy, and more depressive symptoms three months after
childbirth. The infants in the risk group had lower birth weight and
were more dysregulated in interaction with their mothers at three
months. Mothers' negative affect and behaviours during social
interaction and infants' birth weight were significantly associated
with infant dysregulation in interaction with their mothers at three
months. The results point to the importance of early intervention for
vulnerable mothers and their infants, and the importance of treating
maternal depression already in pregnancy and also to offer parent-
infant interaction guidance after the infant is born. The Window of
Tolerance model can be a meaningful tool in the effort to increase
parental sensitivity to the infant's needs and signals.